For generations, going to the movies has been a popular activity for all ages. There are a multitude of highly anticipated movies coming out this year, with many fan-favorite franchises adding to their collection of blockbuster movies. A good movie, paired with friends, popcorn and candy, is the perfect combination for any day of the week. Here’s a look at the lineup for 2026.
“The Mandalorian and Grogu”
Release date: May 22, 2026
Taking place in the adored “Star Wars” universe, Din Djardin (the Mandalorain) and Grogu are currently living in the New Republic, with Din working as a contractor to track down imperial remnants. Over the course of the film, Din and Grogu strengthen their bond as they focus on protecting the galaxy from scattered warlords.
“Toy Story 5”
Release date: June 19, 2026
As the fifth installment of the “Toy Story” franchise, this movie will take on the modern problem of “iPad kids.” Classic characters Woody and Buzz will be returning to face the challenge of their beloved owner, Bonnie, getting an iPad. As Bonnie loses interest in her toys, they have to fight for their relevance.
“Minions and Monsters”
Release date: July 1, 2026
“Minions and Monsters” is set in the 1920s as a prequel to the popular “Despicable Me” movies. This movie follows a new group of minions as they become Hollywood stars. However, when Hollywood transitions to “talkies,” they fail to adapt and fall into poverty. Along their journey, they accidentally unleash monsters, which leads them to embark on a quest to save the world.
“Moana: Live-action”
Release date: July 10, 2026
In recent years, Disney has been obsessed with turning their popular animated movies into live-action adaptations. The next one to hit the big screens this summer is “Moana,” which was originally released in 2016. In this movie, Moana is given the task of returning the stolen heart of the goddess to Te Fiti to save her island. The voice actor of Maui, Dwayne Johnson, will be reprising his role in the live-action adaptation.
“Spider-Man: Brand New Day”
Release date: July 31, 2026
Following the conclusion of “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” Peter Parker is left alone after Doctor Strange has to wipe everyone’s memory of him in order to prevent the collapse of the multiverse. Faced with the challenge of starting a new life, Peter Parker watches his former girlfriend (MJ) and best friend (Ned) continue on with their normal lives while having no memory of his existence. Throughout this, he is also experiencing a ‘mutation,’ though any specific details of this movie have been carefully hidden. Starring in this movie will be Tom Holland and Zendaya, alongside Sadie Sink, whose character is still unknown.
“The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping”
Release date: Nov. 20, 2026
Following the plot of Suzanne Collins’ book, “Sunrise on the Reaping” is the sixth movie in the “Hunger Games” franchise (fifth book). The story follows Haymitch as he is reaped in the Second Quarter Quell, meaning there are 48 people entering the arena instead of 24. Throughout the movie, Haymitch experiences severe heartbreak and trauma in his personal life. This gives context to the reasoning behind Haymitch’s choices when mentoring Katniss and Peeta, since “Sunrise on the Reaping” is a prequel to the original “Hunger Games” trilogy.
“Avengers: Doomsday”
Release date: Dec. 18, 2026
Set to be the 39th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Avengers: Doomsday” is a highly anticipated venture into multiversal war. With the multiverse collapsing, the Avengers, Fantastic Four and X-Men have to unite to face Victor Von Doom. Fans are looking forward to the return of Robert Downey Jr., who previously played Iron Man. After the death of Iron Man, he is now returning to the MCU to play Doctor Doom.
Dune: Part Three
Release date: Dec. 18, 2026
Starring several big names, including Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Robert Pattinson and Florence Pugh, “Dune: Part Three” is based on Frank Herbert’s book, “Dune Messiah.” This movie picks up 17 years after “Part Two”, focusing on Paul Atreides as the powerful but trapped Emperor. Facing the consequences of his holy war, the movie follows Paul’s struggling love story with Chani while he deals with political conspiracies.
